Maui Adventures

Stand-Up Paddle
Boards Are Making a Comeback in Maui

I think it's safe to say that Stand-Up Paddle Boarding is the closest we're ever going to come to walking on water. These specialized boards are derived from the sport of paddle boarding, which has been around since the early 20th
century and, like the surfboard, was created in Hawaii. Stand-Up Paddle Boarding began making a comeback in the 1940's and 1950's, primarily in Waikiki when surf instructors started using paddles to help them take pictures of the students they were teaching. Today, Stand-Up Paddle
Boards are back on the water in a big way.

Beginning its resurgence back in the forties, Stand-Up Paddle
Boards were a great alternative for surfers to continue their training even when the surf wasn't great. The main factor that differentiates the Stand-Up Paddle Boarding from other water sports, such as surfing or straight Paddle Boarding, is that the Stand-Up Paddle
Board doesn't require waves. They can be used in a lake, river, or small swell day at the beach.

Also because you're standing, you have a much great visibility of the life underneath the water's surface, which can be key for observing marine life, or seeing undertows that may be picking up around you.

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Another key difference when it comes to Stand-Up Paddle
Boards is the ramifications you have to keep in mind when using one. When it comes to surfboards, there are basic guidelines depending on if you are a beginner or a more experienced surfer. Do you want a
Shortboard or a Longboard? When using a Stand-Up Paddle Board, you need to consider and judge the width, height or length, and thickness of the board.

The average width of a Paddle Board is around 29 inches. Width is important to consider, because it determines the stability of the board. If you're a beginner, and are looking for the board to relax and hang out on, then you may want to go a bit bigger, between 29 and 31 inches. Conversely, if you're more of an experienced rider, you may want to go a little thinner, somewhere between 27 and 28 inches.

Next, is the height or length of the board. Similarly to the width, the length also determines stability, but length is most important in maneuverability. So if you're looking for stability, the shorter board would be better, but if you want to be able to glide, and paddle, then the longer board would be better suited to you.

Lastly, you have to keep the thickness of the board in mind. Most boards have a thickness that ranges between 4 inches and 5 inches. The thicker the board, the more stabilization it will provide. A thick board gives the surfer a better opportunity to catch waves, and provides a more stable platform for the rider as well.

Stand-Up Paddle Boards are a great way to stay in shape or train during off season, and they're a great adventure to share with your whole family, and they're a great new sport for you to learn. The excitement of riding Stand-Up Paddle
Boards is growing, so jump on one and be a part of the craze!